Firefox Free Built-in VPN: Secure Browsing Without Additional Costs

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Mozilla to Introduce Free Built-in VPN in Firefox 149

Mozilla is set to introduce a free, built-in virtual private network (VPN) in the upcoming Firefox 149 release, scheduled for March 24. This move aims to provide users with an additional layer of privacy while browsing, without requiring the installation of separate VPN software.

How the Built-in VPN Works

The built-in VPN will route browser traffic through a proxy, effectively masking the user’s IP address and location. This feature is designed to alleviate concerns surrounding data privacy, which are often associated with free VPN services. Mozilla asserts that its implementation is guided by the company’s data principles and commitment to trust, avoiding the types of data-sharing arrangements that have raised questions in the past.

New Features in Firefox 149

In addition to the VPN feature, Firefox 149 will introduce several other updates focused on productivity and user experience. One notable feature, previously known as AI Window, is now called Smart Window. This opt-in feature offers in-browser assistance, providing users with definitions, article summaries, and product comparisons without requiring them to leave the current page. A waitlist is currently open for early access to Smart Window.

Another feature, Split View, will enable users to display two webpages side by side in a single window, facilitating easier comparison and multitasking. Furthermore, Tab Notes will allow users to attach notes to individual tabs, helping them keep track of information and resume tasks more efficiently.

According to Ajit Varma, head of Firefox, the roadmap for the browser this year is the most exciting one developed in a while. “We’re solely focused on building the best browser, and our features over the next few months and beyond are driven by the feedback from our community,” Varma said. “We’re improving the fundamentals like speed and performance. We’re also launching innovative new open standards in Gecko to ensure the future of the web is open, diverse, and not controlled by a single engine. At the same time, we’re prioritizing features that give users real power, choice, and strong privacy protections, built in a way that only Firefox can.”